Danish Reyaz | Maeeshat News Network | Mumbai |India

On this momentous day, July 10, 2025, Malaysia and the world unite to celebrate the 100th birthday of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, a towering figure whose indomitable spirit and visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on the nation and beyond. As we honour a century of his remarkable life, we reflect on a legacy that has not only transformed Malaysia into a modern, progressive nation but also redefined the global landscape of Islamic finance.

Tun Dr Mahathir’s contributions to Malaysia are nothing short of monumental. Serving as Malaysia’s Prime Minister for a combined 24 years across two terms (1981–2003 and 2018–2020), he is widely regarded as the architect of Malaysia’s rapid modernization. Under his leadership, Malaysia transitioned from an agrarian economy to an industrialized powerhouse, with iconic projects like the Petronas Twin Towers, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the Multimedia Corridor symbolizing his bold vision for progress. His policies emphasized economic diversification, technological advancement, and national pride, encapsulated in his ambitious Vision 2020, which aimed to propel Malaysia to developed nation status.

One of Tun Dr Mahathir’s most enduring legacies is his pioneering role in the establishment of Malaysia’s Islamic finance ecosystem. In 1982, his government took a historic step by founding Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad, the country’s first full-fledged Islamic bank. This bold initiative was not merely a financial innovation but a visionary move to align economic progress with the values of faith, equity, and inclusivity. Under his stewardship, Malaysia became a global leader in Islamic finance, setting standards for Shariah-compliant banking and financial instruments that are now emulated worldwide. Today, Malaysia’s Islamic finance sector accounts for a significant portion of the nation’s financial industry, with assets exceeding USD 200 billion, thanks to the foundation laid by Tun Dr Mahathir’s foresight.

His commitment to Islamic finance was rooted in a broader vision of empowering communities and fostering economic justice. By championing financial systems that adhere to ethical principles, he ensured that wealth creation was inclusive, benefiting not just the elite but also uplifting the marginalized. This legacy continues to inspire nations across the globe, as Islamic finance grows in prominence, offering an alternative model for sustainable and equitable economic development.

Beyond economics, Tun Dr Mahathir’s leadership was defined by his fearless advocacy for the Global South. As a vocal proponent of developing nations, he challenged global inequalities and championed self-reliance, earning respect as a statesman on the world stage. His ability to balance tradition with modernity, faith with progress, and national pride with global cooperation remains a guiding light for leaders worldwide.

At 100, Tun Dr Mahathir’s vigor and intellectual sharpness continue to inspire. His life is a testament to resilience, having navigated Malaysia through economic crises, political challenges, and global shifts while remaining steadfast in his principles. Even in his later years, he remains an active voice, sharing insights on governance, development, and the future of Malaysia through his writings and public engagements.

As we celebrate this milestone, we express our deepest gratitude to Tun Dr Mahathir for his unwavering dedication to Malaysia and the global Muslim community. Your legacy is not just in the skyscrapers that pierce the Kuala Lumpur skyline or the financial systems that empower millions—it is in the minds you’ve shaped, the markets you’ve moved, and the communities you’ve uplifted. Your life’s work has shown us that faith and finance can indeed walk hand in hand, creating a future that is both prosperous and principled.

On behalf of a grateful nation and an admiring world, we wish you, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, a very Happy 100th Birthday. May you continue to enjoy good health, strength, and blessings as you inspire generations to come. Your journey is far from over, and we look forward to the wisdom you will continue to share with the world.

Selamat Hari Jadi, Tun! Terima kasih atas segalanya.